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Crist Joins 2012 Contenders in Michigan

Michigan Republicans are heading to Mackinac Island Friday to look over the 2010 crop of gubernatorial candidates as well as two possible 2012 presidential contenders. Current Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and ex-Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, who ran for president last year, will give keynote speeches Saturday. Florida Gov. Charlie Crist speaks Friday evening, and former Michigan Gov. John Engler will be among panelists discussing how to turn around the economically struggling state.

The Miami Herald points out that, “this is a good opportunity for Crist to meet prospective donors for his Senate campaign — and a potential presidential bid”

With several months remaining until the Republican primary against Marco Rubio and more than a year until the general election, if he wins the nomination, it would behoove Crist to put an end to any rumors of a Presidential bid as soon as possible. Otherwise, he might not have a shot at either office.